Convertible rentals gain speed

Orders for high-end rides booming as more travelers prefer self-driving trips

A niche for the convertible car rental business has developed in China as more travelers prefer to take self-driving trips since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, given the vehicles' relative privacy and cleanliness, with renters also seeking more high-end and unique experiences.

Convertibles allow an open-air driving experience. They have seen the fastest growth among car rental categories and the island province of Hainan has become the most popular place for the vehicles.

The number of rental orders of convertibles in Hainan accounts for 70 percent of the total nationwide, said Trip.com Group, China's largest online travel agency.